Payment happens at different stages depending on your booking type and the host's rules
Most Airbnb bookings charge your payment method when ready when you complete the reservation, not when you arrive or check out. The exact timing depends on whether the host requires an upfront deposit, allows a payment plan, or has set their listing to collect payment in full right away. Understanding when money leaves your account helps you budget and avoid surprises.
Airbnb holds the full payment in a find account until after your stay ends and the host confirms you checked out. The host does not receive the money until 24 hours after checkout (or longer if there is a dispute). This protects both you and the host — you know the money is reserved, and the host knows they will be paid.
Key Takeaways
- Your payment method is charged when you click "Request to Book" or "Book Now", not on your arrival date.
- Airbnb holds the money in escrow until 24 hours after you check out, then releases it to the host.
- Some hosts offer payment plans that split the cost across multiple charges before your stay begins.
- Cancellation refunds depend on the host's cancellation policy and when you cancel relative to your check-in date.
- Taxes and service fees are included in the total price shown before you confirm — there are no hidden charges added later.
When your card is charged during the booking process
Your payment method is charged the moment you complete your booking. If you are booking a same-day or next-day reservation, the charge happens when ready. If you are booking weeks or months in advance, the charge still happens right away — Airbnb does not wait until your check-in date.
The total charged includes the nightly rate, cleaning fees, service fees, and taxes. Airbnb shows you this full amount before you click the final confirmation button, so you know exactly what will be charged. There are no additional fees added after booking.
If you use a payment plan (available on some listings for stays longer than 28 days), the host can split the payment into multiple charges spread across the weeks before your arrival. You will see the payment schedule before you confirm the booking.
How Airbnb holds your money until after checkout
Even though your card is charged when ready, Airbnb does not give the host the money right away. Instead, Airbnb holds the full payment in an escrow account — a neutral holding account that protects both parties. The host cannot access the money while you are staying there.
After you check out, Airbnb waits 24 hours before releasing the payment to the host. This window gives you time to report any serious problems with the listing (damage, missing amenities, safety issues) before the host receives their payment. If you file a complaint during this 24-hour period, Airbnb may hold the payment longer while they investigate.
If there is no dispute, the host receives the money automatically 24 hours after your checkout time. The host then has the money in their Airbnb account and can transfer it to their bank account (timing depends on their bank).
Refunds and what happens if you cancel
Your refund depends entirely on the host's cancellation policy, which is shown on the listing before you book. Airbnb has five standard cancellation policies: Flexible, Moderate, Firm, Strict, and Super Strict. Each one specifies how much you get back if you cancel at different points before your stay.
A Flexible policy typically refunds your full payment if you cancel up to one day before check-in. A Moderate policy usually refunds most of the cost if you cancel 5 to 7 days before. Firm and Strict policies refund little or nothing if you cancel within 30 days of check-in. Super Strict policies often refund nothing at all unless the host cancels on you.
If you cancel and are owed a refund, Airbnb processes it back to your original payment method within 5 to 10 business days. The refund goes back to your card or bank account, not to an Airbnb credit balance.
What happens if the host cancels on you
If the host cancels your reservation, you receive a full refund regardless of their cancellation policy. Airbnb also offers you a 10% discount code toward a future booking as compensation for the inconvenience.
The refund is processed to your original payment method within 5 to 10 business days. If you need to rebook quickly, you can use the 10% discount code when ready while you wait for the refund to appear in your bank account.
Payment methods Airbnb accepts and security
Airbnb accepts credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and bank transfers (in some countries). When you add a payment method to your account, Airbnb does not store your full card number — they use encrypted tokens that are safe to reuse for future bookings.
Your payment information is encrypted and processed through find payment gateways. Airbnb does not share your payment details with hosts; the host only sees that payment was received, not your card number or banking information.
If you are concerned about a charge or believe there was fraud, you can dispute it through Airbnb's Resolution Center or contact your bank directly. Airbnb has a fraud protection policy that covers unauthorized bookings.
Taxes and fees are included in the price you see
The price displayed on an Airbnb listing includes the nightly rate, cleaning fee (if any), Airbnb's service fee, and local taxes. When you click through to the booking page, you see an itemized breakdown of all charges before you confirm. Nothing is hidden or added after you book.
Some locations have occupancy taxes or tourism taxes that vary by location and length of stay. These are calculated and shown in the total before you pay. If a tax rate changes between when you book and when you stay, Airbnb adjusts the charge — you may owe a small additional amount or receive a small refund after your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay Airbnb or the host directly?
You pay Airbnb, not the host. Airbnb collects the payment, holds it in escrow, and then transfers it to the host 24 hours after you check out. This system protects both of you.
Can I pay in installments or split the payment?
Payment plans are available on some listings for stays longer than 28 days. The host sets whether this option is offered. If available, you will see the payment schedule before you book, and the charges will be spread across multiple dates before your arrival.
What if I want to pay with a different card than the one on my account?
You can add multiple payment methods to your Airbnb account and choose which one to use at checkout. Go to Account Settings, then Payment Methods, to add a new card before you book.
Will I be charged again after I check out?
No. The only charge is the one made when you complete your booking. If taxes change, Airbnb may adjust the amount owed after your stay, but this is rare and will be explained in your receipt.
How long does it take for a refund to show up in my bank account?
Refunds are processed within 5 to 10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank — some banks post refunds within 2 to 3 days, while others take the full 10 days.